Description

The Bugatti Type 49 Berline exemplifies the marque’s vision of dignified, high-performance motoring during the interwar period. Introduced in 1930, the Type 49 was the last of Bugatti’s grand touring models designed by Ettore Bugatti himself, and the Berline body style highlighted the car’s potential as a luxurious yet capable long-distance traveler.

Under the hood, the Type 49 was powered by a 3.3-liter inline-eight engine, featuring a single overhead camshaft and three valves per cylinder—an advanced configuration for its time. This engine, paired with a smooth-shifting four-speed gearbox, delivered refined performance, making it equally suitable for city driving or extended touring across the European countryside.

The Berline configuration featured a formal, enclosed cabin with upright proportions, providing generous space for passengers. Often bodied by leading coachbuilders or built to client specification, the Type 49 Berline was a rolling expression of style and prestige. Its tall roofline, full-length doors, and ample glass area gave it an air of authority, while the interior was typically finished with rich wood veneers, fine upholstery, and custom details.

Today, the Bugatti Type 49 Berline is appreciated not only for its rarity and craftsmanship but also as a symbol of pre-war luxury tailored to those who demanded comfort, performance, and exclusivity in equal measure.